Christmas Cookie Recipe: Cherry Lime Brownies

We've seen all manner of ways to make brownies a holiday treat, everything from burying peppermint candies in them to topping them with candy canes. But we prefer the delicious simplicity of this recipe, which swirls lime marmalade and cherry jam over a rich brownie base studded with chocolate chunks and dried cherries. If lime doesn't do it for you, feel free to leave out the zest and substitute another variety marmalade or jam.

In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, lime zest and vanilla. Beat in the eggs, one at a time. Stir in the flour and cocoa powder, then stir in the cherries and chocolate chunks.

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Dollop lime curd and cherry jam over the top of the brownie batter. Gently drag the back of a spoon through the top of the batter and the marmalade and jam to swirl them into the surface. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted at the centre yields just moist crumbs. Allow to cool in the pan. Cut into 24 bars.